How to have a cheap holiday in Rome

Photo: Colosseum

Rome is one of the most popular city breaks in the world. It’s right up there with Paris, New York and Barcelona. With its popularity a problematic side-effect has appeared, inflated prices. Everything from hotel rooms to pizzas are more expensive in Rome than in similar Italian cities. If you want to enjoy Rome without breaking the bank you need some inside tips.

Don’t do everything
Don’t try to do Rome in 2 days. There’s so much to see, but do you really want to spend all your holiday standing in long lines and paying hefty entrance fees? Select a few things you absolutely want to see and stick with it. You’ll enjoy it more and pay less.

Budget drinking in Rome
If you want cheap drinks in Rome you are best advised to walk at least 500 metres away from any tourist attractions. Restaurants and bars who are lucky to be located nearby big attractions always make you pay through the nose for your drinks.

Where to eat cheap?
If you really want a cheap meal you should look no further than the many pizza joints who serve up slices of pizzas for a few euros. Pick your pizza, pay and consume it while you go. If you prefer to sit down to have your meal you must be prepared to pay at least 10 euros for a lunch with drinks.

Inexpensive sleep
Rome has a reputation of being very expensive when it comes to accommodation. In the summer months the prices go to the roof for hotel accommodation. Travel to Rome in the winter (November – March) for slightly more managable hotel costs, or select one of the many hostels which offers beds in dorms for around €20 for the night.